On January 4, 2026, Deputy Heimer initiated a traffic stop near the 6400 block of 34th Ave NW, within the City of Rochester, in Olmsted County, Minnesota. The traffic stop was initiated as Deputy Heimer did not observe a permanent license plates, nor temporary registration, on the vehicle. Deputy Heimer observed the vehicle making frequent lane changes in an apparent attempt to avoid attention. Upon making contact with the driver, Deputy Heimer identified her as Samantha Jo Lynch [DOB REDACTED]. Lynch advised that she was borrowing the car from a friend in Apple Valley, Minnesota, and was unsure if it had insurance or registration.
Lynch also advised that her license status was Cancelled-Inimical to Public Safety. Deputy Heimer retrieved the VIN number for the vehicle and returned to his squad. Deputy Heimer confirmed that Lynch was Cancelled-- Inimical to Public Safety. The VIN number returned as a stolen vehicle out of St. Louis Park, Minnesota. Deputy Heimer confirmed that the vehicle was still reported as stolen with dispatch and with the St. Louis Park Police Department. Officers arrested Lynch due to her Cancelled - IPS status.
A baggie containing trace amounts of methamphetamine was found on her person. Officers searched the vehicle and discovered that the vehicle's key was broken off in the ignition; a screwdriver was required to start the car. Registration to a different vehicle, in Lynch's name, was found in the vehicle. Lynch also had an ignition interlock requirement on her driver's license. There was no interlock installed on the vehickle. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: YOU MUST APPEAR FOR EVERY COURT HEARING REGARDING THIS CASE. FAILURE TO APPEAR FOR COURT IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE AND MAY RESULT IN ADDITIONAL CRIMINAL CHARGES BEING IMPOSED AND PUNISHED AS PROVIDED IN MINNESOTA STATUTES SECTION 609.49.
